Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake

A fun twist on traditional pizza, the Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake offers all the flavors of a classic pizza but in a stacked, savory cake form. Perfect for parties, family dinners, or any pizza lover’s dream, this layered creation features pizza dough, gooey mozzarella cheese, savory pepperoni, and a sprinkling of parmesan and fresh basil. It’s easy to make and sure to impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

• 2 cans refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup pizza sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 package pepperoni slices
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking.
2. Roll out one can of pizza dough and press it into the bottom of the cake pan, making sure the dough covers the entire base.
3. Spread half of the pizza sauce evenly over the dough, then top with half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Layer half of the pepperoni slices over the cheese, then repeat the layers with the remaining pizza sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni.
5. Roll out the second can of pizza dough and place it over the top of the last pepperoni layer. Pinch the edges of the dough to seal the layers together.
6. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese on top of the dough.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Allow the pizza layer cake to cool for a few minutes before garnishing with chopped fresh basil. Slice into wedges and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 40-45 minutes

Variations

1. Vegetarian Layer Cake: Skip the pepperoni and replace it with other pizza toppings like sliced bell peppers, onions, olives, or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
2. Cheese Lovers: Add extra cheese layers—such as provolone, cheddar, or ricotta—between the pizza dough layers for a richer, cheesier cake.
3. Spicy Kick: Add some sliced jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce layer for a spicy twist.
4. Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Leftover pizza layer cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual slices for about 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this pizza layer cake ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the cake up to a day ahead, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.
2. Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated dough?
   Absolutely! If you have homemade pizza dough, feel free to use it.
3. Is this recipe gluten-free?
   This recipe uses regular pizza dough, but you can use gluten-free pizza dough as a substitute to make it gluten-free.
4. Can I freeze the pizza layer cake?
   Yes, you can freeze the fully assembled pizza cake before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time to the cooking process.
5. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to mix and match cheeses! Mozzarella, provolone, cheddar, or even gouda can work well in this recipe.
6. How do I prevent the pizza dough from getting soggy?
   Make sure to drain any excess moisture from the pizza sauce before spreading it on the dough. Also, try not to overload the layers with too much sauce.
7. What other toppings can I add to the layers?
   You can add any of your favorite pizza toppings like cooked sausage, bacon, mushrooms, or vegetables.
8. Can I use a different size pan?
   While this recipe is designed for a 9-inch round cake pan, you can use a similar-sized pan or adjust the layers to fit a larger or smaller pan.
9. How can I make this recipe spicier?
   Add sliced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or spicy sausage in place of the pepperoni.
10. Can I serve this as a main dish or an appetizer?
    This pizza layer cake works well as both a main dish for a casual dinner or as an appetizer for a party.

Conclusion

The Pepperoni Pizza Layer Cake is a creative and delicious way to enjoy pizza in a whole new form. Whether you’re serving it at a party, family gathering, or just want something fun for dinner, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its cheesy layers, crispy dough, and savory pepperoni, it’s an easy yet impressive dish that’s bound to satisfy all your pizza cravings!

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